GADSDEN, AL — Ronnie Watkins Ford, in partnership with the Automobile Dealers Association of Alabama (ADAA), presented a $16,000 check on behalf of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Foundation to Gadsden State Community College’s Automotive Service Technology program. The donation supports student training and workforce development in the automotive industry.
The NADA Foundation, established in 1975, serves as the philanthropic arm of the retail auto industry. Representing more than 16,000 new-car dealers across the nation, NADA advocates for dealerships before federal and state entities, manufacturers, the media, and the public. The Foundation’s initiatives include promoting technician training and workforce development at franchised dealerships nationwide.
Thomas R. Dart, president of ADAA, attended the check presentation and praised Gadsden State’s efforts to meet the industry’s workforce needs.
“When talking to dealerships, their biggest challenge is finding and retaining skilled technicians,” Dart said. “We like to support programs, like Gadsden State’s automotive program, that produce quality people and prepare them for the job. It’s a win-win for everybody.”
Ronnie Watkins Ford, a long-time supporter of Gadsden State, joined ADAA in presenting the donation. Jacob Vanderford, general manager of Ronnie Watkins Ford and a Gadsden State alumnus, emphasized the value of the ongoing partnership.
“We have had a long-standing relationship with Gadsden State, specifically the automotive program,” Vanderford said. “Gadsden State prepares students not only for their job but for life in general. They graduate with better knowledge of how to perform and become productive members of society. The partnership has been good for many years, and we look forward to continuing it.”
Andy Robertson, dean of Workforce Development at Gadsden State, called the donation a significant investment in students and the regional workforce.
“The support from the NADA Foundation, ADAA, and Ronnie Watkins Ford is a huge opportunity for our students,” Robertson said. “These relationships are great for all of our industry partners. They know our students are getting hands-on, relevant training, and they can come to us for their staffing needs. Being recognized by the NADA Foundation is a privilege, and their reinvestment in our students will help the program continue to grow and develop. We’re grateful for their ongoing support.”
Alan Smith, president of Gadsden State Community College, also expressed appreciation for the continued investment in the college and its programs.
“I greatly appreciate the National Automobile Dealers Association, Ronnie Watkins Ford, and all of our community partners for their continued support of Gadsden State,” Smith said. “I am especially proud of our outstanding Automotive Service Technology instructors and students. Their commitment to excellence and hands-on learning continues to strengthen our reputation as a leader in workforce development.”
The Automotive Service Technology program at Gadsden State trains students for entry-level automotive technician positions and provides advanced instruction in diagnostics, repair, and maintenance of modern vehicles.
For more information about the program, visit www.gadsdenstate.edu/tech-programs.
